Thiago Silva wins Italian Players' Association prize

Thiago Silva received his Italian Association of Footballers award on Monday, having been elected as part of the Serie A Team of the Year for 2011/12.

The Brazil national team captain was voted the best defender in Italy for 2012 and received his award alongside best striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Serie B best player Marco Verratti—all of whom now ply their trade at the Parc des Princes.

Thiago, who in December became the first player to retain the Samba Gold trophy for the best Brazilian player in Europe, moved to Paris Saint-Germain last summer for around €42 million.

Unfortunately for fans in England, the centre-back will miss next month's friendly encounter at Wembley, having recently up a thigh injury that will keep him out until mid-February.